Apprenticeships boost for social housing

by Harry Porter

The number of modern apprentices in housing associations and co-operatives is set to increase.

Plans announced by the Scottish Federation of Housing Associations and Skills Development Scotland will see a big increase the number of modern apprentices in housing associations and co-operatives.

They hope young people will gain skills and experience while the housing sector benefits from trained professionals.

The announcment was made at the annual conference of SFHA in Glasgow.

The plan should increase the number of social landlords providing modern apprenticeships and ensure their commitment to recruiting and retaining young people for the workforce.

Mary Taylor, Chief Executive of the SFHA, said: “Creating opportunities for people to learn and get onto the career ladder is vital to ensure that the social housing sector grows and continues to thrive.

“Increasing the types and numbers of apprenticeships available will allow our sector to have a diverse range of skilled workers who are able to provide the housing and services that tenants require now and in the future.”

The joint-effort to extend the number of Modern Apprentices in the housing sector forms part of wider plans supporting business and industry to meet Scottish Government targets of an increase from 25,000 to 30,000 new apprentices each year by 2020.